Update: Family of 15 year-old girl killed after collision involving lorry in Sheringham pay tribute to a “huge character”

The devastated family of a 15 year-old girl who was killed after being involved in a crash with a lorry have thanked others for their messages of support after the “unbelievable loss” of a “huge character”.

Flora tributes at the scene of the fatal road accident on the A149 near Sheringham Park. Photo: Karen Bethell

Martha Seaward died at the scene of the crash which happened at about 5pm yesterday on the A148 Sheringham Road close to the junction with Lodge Hill.

A Scania lorry was travelling towards Cromer when it was involved in a collision with the pedestrian close to Sheringham Park, a National Trust property famed for its rhododendrons.

The road was closed to allow emergency services including police, fire and ambulance to attend the scene. Diversions were put in place.

Police have tonight released a tribute to the north Norfolk teenager on behalf of her family. The short statement said: “We would like to express our appreciation for the messages and good will gestures following the tragic and unbelievable loss of our daughter Martha.

Police tape at the scene of the fatal accident on the A149 near Sheringham Park. Photo: Karen Bethell.

“Martha was the middle child of nine children, and her loss has completely devastated all of us.

“We would ask that we are allowed to grieve as a family and try to start to come to terms with this devastating news.

“She was a huge character and dearly loved by us all. She will be greatly missed.”

Police attended the incident at around 5pm on the A148 Holt Road close to the junction with Lodge Hill following reports a female pedestrian had been involved with a collision with a Scania lorry.

Floral tributes to Martha have been left at the scene of the crash, meanwhile Norman Lamb, North Norfolk MP, said the circumstances will have to be investigated to establish what happened but offered his “heartfelt sympathy” to the family “who have been hit by this tragedy”.

One appliance from Sheringham and one from Cromer attended the crash and helped to make the vehicle safe

A spokesman in the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service control room said one crew remained at the scene to assist police.

A spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service Trust (EEAST) said they were called to the crash at about 5.06pm and sent a rapid response vehicle and an ambulance to the scene but said the female was confirmed dead at the scene.

Officers continue to appeal for witnesses to the collision to come forward.

Calls should be made to the Serious Collision Investigation Team (SCIT) at Norfolk Constabulary on 101.